Tipos de players

Who are the different types of players according to the authors?

Learning to identify the types of players in games can transform the way we design interactive experiences. Several authors have theorized about the types of players, each with unique characteristics that influence their behavior. This classification not only enriches game design, but also has implications outside the realm of games, such as in education or team management.

What does Richard Bartle propose in his classification?

Richard Bartle is one of the best known references in the field of player classification. In his model, he identifies four clear types of gamers:

• Killers: they enjoy defeating their opponents beyond just winning. The thrill of seeing others lose characterizes them.
• Achievers (archivers): They focus on meeting objectives and overcoming achievements, seeking to reach everything hidden, including system errors.
• Explorers: Lovers of discovery, they delve into new paths within the game, such as finding hidden secrets or sharing these findings with others.
• Socializers: Their motivation comes from social interactions. They prefer to connect with other players rather than focus on the mere triumph of the game.

What do Emmy Yo Kim and Oscar Fuentes bring to these classifications?

Emmy Yo Kim and Oscar Fuentes offer interesting variations on the structure proposed by Bartle:

• Emmy Yo Kim opts for more explicit actions: expressing oneself, competing, exploring and collaborating. This classification has similarities with Bartle's, but with a focus on action verbs.

• Óscar Fuentes makes a change in Bartle's classification by replacing "Killers" with "Disruptors". These players not only want to defeat their rivals, they also seek change and innovation within the game, allowing them to explore new mechanics.

What are the sixteen personalities and Andrzej Marczewski's system like?

The sixteen personalities are another approach that divides players into four categories, each with four subtypes, allowing for an in-depth analysis that some people find easy through online tests. However, this method requires more effort to match with game mechanics and motivators.

On the other hand, Andrzej Marczewski presents one of the most comprehensive classifications. He offers six types of players with a tool for linking motivators and game mechanics. These types are:

1. Disruptors: Motivated by change and innovation-driven decision making.
2. Free spirits: Interested in autonomy, creation and exploration.
3. Followers: Focused on mastery and self-learning.
4. Philanthropists: Play with a higher purpose, motivated by meaningful social contributions.
5. Socializers: Interaction-oriented, value collaboration and recognition within the game.
6. Gamers: Motivated primarily by extrinsic rewards, they seek the ultimate prize.

How are these types of players subdivided and why is it relevant?

Marczewski further refines his classification into subcategories based on intrinsic and extrinsic rewards, as well as change and interaction motivations (e.g., Black Hat and White Hat). This method addresses how players interact and intervene in the system or with other users.

For designers, knowing these typologies allows them to create more effective strategies. Understanding what motivates each type of player helps to select mechanics that enhance their experience. For example, for players motivated by mastery, we might include challenges that require advanced skills or learning new competencies. While for those motivated by change, we could develop situations that offer them freedom of choice.

Deep understanding of these classifications not only enhances the graphical and mechanical design of games, but also increases the emotional resonance of experiences, inviting players to engage beyond the surface.

Keep exploring and adapt these ratings to your own needs; don't limit yourself. Use these tools to boost the interest and satisfaction of your users or players.